BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese takes the classic comfort of a grilled cheese sandwich and cranks it up with tender shredded chicken tossed in tangy barbecue sauce and layered with melty cheese between buttery, golden slices of bread. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack. Pair it with soup or a crisp salad for a restaurant-quality plate at home.

What Makes This Dish Special?
This sandwich brings together smoky-sweet BBQ chicken with creamy, gooey cheese and crispy, buttery bread—it’s a bold flavor fusion that feels indulgent but is easy enough for weeknights. It’s also incredibly versatile: switch up the cheese, add toppings, or serve with a dip for extra wow. Every bite is the perfect balance of crunch, melt, and barbecue kick.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (sourdough or Texas toast works great)
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
- ⅓ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 tbsp butter (softened)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Optional: red onion slices, pickled jalapeños, or sliced tomatoes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Filling
In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated. Set aside.
2. Butter the Bread
Butter one side of each slice of bread. These will be the outsides of the sandwich for grilling.
3. Assemble the Sandwiches
Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. Top each with a mix of cheeses, then add the BBQ chicken mixture. Add any optional toppings. Finish with more cheese and the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
4. Cook Until Golden
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sandwiches and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
5. Slice and Serve
Remove from the pan, let cool slightly, then slice in half and serve warm.

Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Bacon Boost: Layer in crispy bacon for extra savory crunch.
- Sweet Touch: Use a honey BBQ sauce or add a few thin pineapple slices.
- Double Cheese: Swap in smoked gouda, provolone, or pepper jack for new flavor combos.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Butter knife
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Sandwich)
- Calories: 490
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 29g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 8g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftover sandwiches (wrapped) for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Toast in a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crispness.
- Freezing: Not ideal—best enjoyed fresh due to texture changes.
My Cooking Experience
The first time I made BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese, it was a spontaneous lunch idea using leftovers—and it was such a hit, I’ve made it regularly ever since. It’s now a comfort food staple in my kitchen. I love switching up the cheeses and pairing it with a creamy coleslaw or pickle on the side for balance.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Grilled Cheese is a flavor-packed, easy-to-make favorite that transforms simple ingredients into a seriously satisfying meal. Whether you’re using leftover chicken or making it fresh, this sandwich delivers all the comforting goodness of grilled cheese with an irresistible BBQ twist.

bbq chicken grilled cheese
Ingredients
Method
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce until fully coated. Set aside.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread. These will be the outsides of the sandwich for grilling.
- Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. Top each with a mix of cheeses, then add the BBQ chicken mixture. Add any optional toppings. Finish with more cheese and the second slice of bread, butter-side up.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the sandwiches and cook 3–4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Remove from the pan, let cool slightly, then slice in half and serve warm.
Notes
- Refrigerator: Store leftover sandwiches (wrapped) for up to 2 days.
- Reheat: Toast in a skillet or air fryer to bring back the crispness.
- Freezing: Not ideal—best enjoyed fresh due to texture changes.